Mediterranean Salmon Pasta Salad

Name: Mediterranean Salmon Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fusilli pasta; 1 lb salmon fillet; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 tbsp capers, drained; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I often find myself craving the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, and this Salmon Pasta Salad truly satisfies that urge. Made with fresh ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and basil, it brings a burst of flavor to my table. The tender salmon paired with al dente pasta makes it a fulfilling dish, perfect for lunch or dinner. Not only is it delicious, but it's also easy to prepare, allowing me to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-19T17:35:19.253Z

When I first crafted this Mediterranean Salmon Pasta Salad, I wanted to highlight the fresh tastes of the region. Combining quality ingredients like cherry tomatoes and capers not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful color to the dish. One key tip I discovered is that allowing the salad to marinate for a short while really helps the flavors meld together, taking the dish to another level of deliciousness.

This recipe is incredibly versatile; I often switch up the veggies based on what's in season or what I have on hand. By using whole-grain pasta, I also make it a bit healthier, boosting the fiber content while keeping it just as tasty. Trust me, once you've tried it, you'll want to make it a regular part of your meal rotation!

What You'll Love About This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors in every bite
Simple to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
Can be prepared ahead and enjoyed as a meal prep option

Ingredient Highlights

The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh cherry tomatoes not only enhances the flavor profile of this Mediterranean Salmon Pasta Salad but also adds texture. Sun-dried tomatoes offer a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture, which contrasts beautifully with the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes. If you ever run out of sun-dried tomatoes, consider using roasted red peppers as a substitute, which will still bring a touch of vibrant color and flavor to the dish.

Black olives deliver a briny, salty kick that complements the mildness of the salmon. Their rich taste balances the freshness of the basil and the acidity of the lemon dressing. For those who prefer a different flavor, a mix of Kalamata and green olives can enhance the complexity. Just remember to adjust the salt level in the dish since Kalamata olives can be saltier than regular black olives.

Cooking the Salmon Perfectly

To achieve perfect salmon fillets, it's essential to ensure your pan is properly preheated before adding the salmon. Aim for a medium heat, allowing for a gentle sizzle when the fish hits the oil. Cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side gives the salmon a golden-brown crust while keeping the center moist and flaky. Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should be just opaque, flaking easily without being dry.

If you're short on time, you can also prepare the salmon in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), drizzle olive oil and season the salmon, and bake for about 12-15 minutes. This method can be a little easier since it requires less attention, allowing you to focus on the pasta and salad assembly while the salmon cooks.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Mediterranean Salmon Pasta Salad is ideal for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. The pasta may absorb some of the dressing’s flavors over time, making it drier; adding fresh dressing just before serving revives the dish beautifully.

If you plan on making it ahead for a gathering or for weekday lunches, consider doubling the recipe. It's easy to scale up, and the flavors only improve as they meld together in the fridge. Just be prepared to increase the amount of lemon juice and seasoning to maintain balance; taste and adjust as needed just before serving.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Mediterranean Salmon Pasta Salad, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz fusilli pasta
1 lb salmon fillet
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 tbsp capers, drained
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavors!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Mediterranean Salmon Pasta Salad:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Salmon

While the pasta cooks, season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper. In a pan over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it cool before flaking into bite-sized pieces.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers. Gently fold in the flaked salmon.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.

Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Enjoy this refreshing salad chilled or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, add some feta cheese or a handful of arugula just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is versatile and can be served warm or cold, making it a great dish for any season. If you enjoy a warm meal, serve it immediately after assembling; the heat from the pasta will slightly wilt the fresh basil, enhancing its aromatic quality. For a chilled option, allow it to sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, as mentioned, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Pair the salad with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the salmon and bright flavors of the salad. For a complete Mediterranean experience, serve alongside crusty bread or a light green salad that features simple olive oil and vinegar dressing.

Variations to Try

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables in this salad. Feel free to add diced cucumbers for crunch, or even grilled zucchini or asparagus for a smoky flavor. Additionally, for a protein boost, consider tossing in chickpeas or even feta cheese, which would lend a creamy texture that pairs well with the olive oil dressing.

If you want to introduce a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or serve with a side of spicy aioli. This can elevate the dish and give guests an option to customize their experience—perfect for serving at potlucks or gatherings where flavors can be a bit more adventurous.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Yes, canned salmon works well for this recipe. Just ensure to drain it properly.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any seasonal veggies you love.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat.